Robert Lee Holbrook

Robert Lee Holbrook, 74, of rural Kendallville, Indiana, passed away peacefully, with family by his side on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023.

Robert was born at Sacred Heart in Garrett, Indiana, on Feb. 1, 1949, to Lee Ports and Ethel Holbrook.

He graduated from Garrett High School Class of 1967, and married Helen Tackett 46 years ago on June 19, 1977.

Robert was one of the most kind-hearted, selfless men you could ever meet, with a heart of gold. He enjoyed helping people in all walks of life and making a difference wherever he could.

He enjoyed all things outdoors, including his garden, taking his grandkids tubing. He also enjoyed driving his great-grandkids on golf cart rides, camping and to see animals in fields all over in the country. His favorite summer activity was taking his wife to garage sales.

Robert hired out on the Pennsylvania Railroad in 1966. He proudly served as Local Chairman and Legislative Representative for Local 194 (Elkhart). Bob was a dedicated Union Representative. He constantly worked to protect the rights and the Agreement for his Members.

Robert took pride in his 20 years of being the leader of the Butler Township 4-H Go Getters.

He served as the superintendent of the Swine Barn and also served many years as the Democratic Chairman for Noble and LaGrange counties. He was the 2020 Recipient of The Roush Lifetime achievement award. He was very dedicated to his party and he also helped run the voter booths for several years.

Robert adored his time with family and friends and living his best life. Robert and Helen loved spending time together and enjoyed every minute of life.

Surviving are his wife, Helen Holbrook of Kendallville; daughter, Joei Gust, and her husband, Andrew Gust, daughter, Sarah Holbrook-Boyd, and her husband, Dave Boyd, and son, Josh Holbrook and his partner, Trisha; brother-in-law, Rick Tackett; 10 grandchildren; and 12 great grandchildren; two brothers, Joe Holbrook and his wife, Carmen, and Doc Holbrook and his wife, Joan; and a sister-in-law, Faye Holbrook.

Robert was preceded in death by his mother, Ethel Holbrook in 2003; father, Lee Ports Holbrook in 1963; daughter, Larkin Zent in 2015; and a brother, Howard Holbrook.

A private family graveside will take place at Cedar Creek Cemetery in rural Auburn.

Memorials may be directed to Apple Tree Center, 500 E Mitchell Street Kendallville, IN 46755.